Creator(s)

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

3-1-2016

Identifier

DOI: 10.1007/s00264-015-3026-x

Abstract

PURPOSE: Failure of a reconstructed anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) has significant morbidity in the paediatric and adolescent patient population. Untreated concomitant posterolateral corner (PLC) injury is an identified cause of failed ACL reconstruction; however, the injury pattern has yet to be defined for the paediatric population.

METHODS: Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) studies of the knee performed between 1 January 2009 and 1 January 2013 were retrospectively reviewed. Imaging reports indicating an intra-substance injury of the ACL were reviewed, and all associated injured structures were recorded. Injury patterns were categorised by age, gender, physis status and associated injuries. Logistic regression and chi-square analyses compared ACL disruptions with and without concomitant PLC injuries.

RESULTS: One hundred and twenty-eight patients (74 boys and 54 girls, average age 15.27 years) sustained an ACL disruption. Concomitant injury to the PLC was seen in 13.3% of injuries. Associated PLC injuries were significantly associated with lateral meniscus injury and Segond fractures. Lateral meniscus injury was predictive of PLC injury (p = 0.05) upon logistic regression analysis.

CONCLUSION: Concomitant PLC injuries were found in 13.3% of all ACL disruptions on MRI analysis. Lateral meniscus injuries associated with an ACL disruption were predictive of concomitant PLC injury. Combined injury of the ACL and lateral meniscus should prompt close scrutiny to PLC structures.

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Children's Mercy, located in Kansas City, Mo., is one of the nation's top pediatric medical centers. The not-for-profit hospital provides care for children from birth through the age of 21, and is ranked by U.S. News & World Report as one of "America's Best Children's Hospitals.“
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